Basics

Here are a few simple beliefs that drive my thinking and approach to managing IT…

• The IT function should be managed as a business
• The job of the Head of IT is to maximize the value of IT to the business
• Executive business leadership must help define the value proposition of IT for both the enterprise and their business unit

I believe in the business model of IT as a managed services provider to the business. Services may be sourced from a multitude of providers (internal and external). A simplified operating model appears below.

Of course, models omit often important information, such as the process by which a new solution needs to be be justified as an appropriate investment, among others. It’s intended to be illustrative, not comprehensive.

Nonetheless, this simple diagram has often proved itself useful in grounding execs in the concept of a service-oriented approach to IT.